It is a good place to ride.
I'm live in VA .
I've done it from the Afton end MP103 or so to Big Meadows and back. About 110 miles. It has a few long climbs, nothing super steep. Did it the first year with a 39/23, second year a 34/25 and a 34/27 and recently 39/27. I'm a skinny climber type guy so gauge accordingly.
Speed limit is 35 so cars aren't too bad. Pavement is decent. Watch after rains because some big rock debris can litter the road. Just don't go in the fall during peak leaf color season.
I think it costs $8 for a bike, secret get there before 7:30ish and it is "free".
You can do it in a day. Big Meadows is just about the middle and has a store with water, energy bars, etc.
The Blue Ridge Parkway continues Skyline Drive south of Afton and is just as nice. Speed limit on BRP is 45 though.